Irvine Valley's men's soccer team picked up its first win of the 2024 season Friday afternoon at home.
And the Lasers did it in spectacular fashion, defeating Southwestern, 2-1, in the final minute of the contest.
Freshman midfielder Luke Newman blasted a shot past Southwestern goalie Sergio Valdez to lift IVC to the win.
Irvine Valley improved its record to 3-1 overall, while Southwestern moved to 0-3.
The Lasers took a 1-0 lead in the seventh minute. A ball in the box glanced off a Southwestern defender and found its way into the back of the net.
Freshman midfielder Esteban Mathurent was credited with the goal for IVC with sophomore defender Jacob Peraza eaerning the assist.
Southwestern tied the score in the 12th minute on a goal by Roberto Hernandez.
And the match stayed that way until the final minute, even though Irvine Valley held a majority of the possession and had several other chances to score.
Freshman forward Finn Monk and sophomore forward Armon Haghighat each had quality chances in the second half.
Just when it looked like the contest might end in a draw, Newman rocketed a shot in the 89th minute past the Southwestern keeper. Freshman defender Carter Cooper picked up the assist on the goal.
It was Newman's third goal in four matches so far.
Sophomore Josh Simonton and freshman Rolando Hernandez each played a half in goal for Irvine Valley. And each player made on save.
IVC plays again next Tuesday at home, hosting Rio Hondo at 3 p.m.
